Squaddie dies after being ‘shot in the head’ during live fire training exercise in Northumberland
Police were called to military ranges in Otterburn during a live firing drill at around 11.15pm on Monday night
A SOLDIER has died after reportedly being shot in the head during a night-time training exercise in Northumberland.
He suffered a fatal head wound during a live firing drill in Otterburn at 11:15pm on Monday night.
The squaddie from the Royal Regiment of Scotland was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.
Sources said he was wearing a helmet and night-vision goggles during the exercise, which included aircarft, artillery and infantry weapons.
The Ministry of Defence, police and Defence Safety Authority watchdog are all launched an investigation into the incident.
Military officials have informed the soldier's next of kin.
Armed Forces Minister Mike Penning said: "My thoughts are with the soldier's family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.
"The safety of our personnel is our absolute priority and, while deaths in training don't happen often, any death is a tragedy.
"As well as a police investigation, MoD accident investigators are looking into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident."
An MoD spokesman said: "We can confirm that a soldier serving with the Royal Regiment of Scotland died while taking part in a live firing exercise.
"Northumbria Police is investigating. It wouldn't be appropriate for us to comment further."
Most soldiers go on live fire exercises about twice a year. Some take part in up to 20 a year.
The exercises are supervised by marshals and follow strict procedures to ensure safety.
The tragedy comes after Joshua Hoole, 26, of The Rifles died in a fitness test as he trained to be a sergeant last month.
A report called for MoD to face prosecution over training deaths.
There have been 136 deaths since 2000.